View of the World Trade Center along Huanshi Dong Road, with the Holiday Inn in the distant background.

Guangzhou (广州 Guǎngzhōu or just simply GZ) is the capital of Guangdong Province in southern China and has a population of over 10 million (The official registered population is 7.3 million, with over 3 million unregistered residents). It is adjacent to Hong Kong and Macau. In the era of tea clippers, Guangzhou was known in the West as "Canton". The food and the language of the area are still known as "Cantonese."

The city is famous for foreign trade and business, and holds China's largest trade fair, the Canton Fair. However, in between the seemingly endless skyscrapers, shopping malls and building sites there is a lot of culture and history, and while Guangzhou is not usually high on the list of Asian tourist destinations, it is amazing how much the city actually has to offer.

Districts

Layout of Guangzhou

Western central Guangzhou in detail (Liwan)

Eastern central Guangzhou in detail (Yuexiu and Tianhe)

There are ten districts in Guangzhou:

Liwan (荔湾 Lìwān) - This is the old Guangzhou, and is combined with the old Fangcun (芳村 Fāngcūn) area in the southwest. Tourist highlights include the colonial Shamian Island, Xiguan Old Houses, and Shangxiajiu shopping districts.

Yuexiu (越秀 Yuèxiù) - This is the political and cultural center and includes the old Dongshan (东山, Dōngshān) area. Highlights include Yuexiu Park, Beijing Lu Shopping District, and Huanghuagang Martyrs Memorial Park.

Haizhu (海珠 Hǎizhū) - Located south of the Pearl River, the district is becoming more business focused, particularly in real estate and trading. Locals refer to this part of Guangzhou as Henan, meaning south of the river. Highlights include the Canton Fair Pazhou Exhibition Center, Sun Yat-Sen University, and the Pearl River Promenade.

Tianhe (天河 Tiānhé) - This is the new city center. It is thriving with many new developments, including skyscrapers like the Citic Plaza and new construction within Zhujiang New Town. Highlights include the Sports Center and many shopping centers.

Baiyun (白云 Báiyún) - This district has a big rural touch, but is slowly being taken over by new developments, including the new airport. Highlights include the Baiyun Mountain.

Huangpu (黄埔 Huángpǔ) - Not well known among foreign tourists, this district is to the east of the city center. Highlights include the former Huangpu Military Academy.

Panyu (番禺 Pānyú) - This is the new area and it focuses on technology and economic development. Highlights include the Lianhua Mountain, two wild animal theme parks and the new University City.

Nansha (南沙 Nánshā) - This is an industrial area at the southern tip of the city. It offers little to tourists.

Luogang (萝岗 Luógǎng) - This is the eastern part of the city and is famous for its plum forest. It is not a popular tourist destination, but it does has some historical sites.

The urban part of the 10 districts are covered by this article, whereas Panyu, Huangpu, Nansha, Huadu, Nangang, and part of Tianhe and Baiyun are covered by Guangzhou Outer City.

In addition to the 10 districts, two nearby cities have been drafted into Guangzhou's jurisdiction:

Zengcheng (增城 Zēngchéng) is famous for its lychee fruit, which are picked in June and July.

Conghua (从化 Cónghuà) is known for its hot springs and Tian (Heavenly) Lake Recreation area.

The main tourist areas and metropolitan areas are in the northern part of the city and they include Liwan, Yuexiu and Tianhe.

Understand

At first sight, Guangzhou appears to be less a city that's developing, and rather one that's about to explode. Every corner seems packed with high-rise buildings, overpasses, and people running marathons. It can be overwhelming, and the initial instinct of many travelers is to get out as soon as possible. However, those that overcome this urge and stay longer will discover a gentler and more personable side to the city.

As a major entry point for overseas culture for many centuries, foreigners are not the anomaly here that they are in other Chinese cities. Consequently, travelers are afforded more personal space and freedom. In addition, tucked away in the back streets, the old Guangzhou of traditional neighborhoods still moves at an age-old pace, with families and friends often sitting outdoors enjoying tea and banter.

Guangzhou also has the largest urban park in China, an island of refurbished colonial buildings and some world class galleries and exhibition spaces. In addition, possibly due to the distance from the country's political centers, the citizens of Guangzhou have developed a laid-back and play-hard approach to life.

Today, Guangzhou is recognized as one of China's most prosperous, liberal, and cosmopolitan cities. However, despite being an international trading hub, there is a lack of English signage and, outside of the business districts and tourist areas, very few locals converse well in English.

History

Formerly known as Canton in the West, the city of Guangzhou has a history dating back roughly 2,500 years.

Although the actual origins of the city are lost in the midst of time, the most popular legend tells of five celestial beings riding into the area that is now Guangzhou on five rams and carrying sheaves of rice. The celestials bestowed blessings on the land and offered the sheaves to the people of the city as a symbol of prosperity and abundance. After the celestials left, the rams turned into stone, and Guangzhou quickly developed into an affluent and influential city. Due to this legend, Guangzhou has gained several popular nicknames: Yangcheng (City of Rams), Suicheng (Sheaves of Rice City) and Wuyangcheng (City of Five Rams). In addition, due to the abundance of flowers along the city's main thoroughfares, Guangzhou is often referred to as Huacheng (City of Flowers).

According to historical records, the city was built in 214BC and was known as Panyu (番禺). The name Guangzhou actually referred to the prefecture in which Panyu was located. However, as the city grew, the name Guangzhou was adopted for the city itself.

As a major sea port, Guangzhou's history is full of color. In 786 the city was sacked by the Persians and in 1711 the British East India Company established a trading post here. In 1842 the Treaty of Nanjing was signed, which designated the city as one of the five ports that allowed business transactions with foreign nations.

Guangzhou was also part of the so called "Maritime Silk Road" that linked southern China with India, South-East Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. As a result of its links with the Middle East, a mosque was established in the city in 627, and a small Muslim community continues to live in Guangzhou to this day. Additionally, the sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism was born in Guangzhou and taught the famous Platform Sutra in the city. As a result, Guangzhou has retained a strong connection with this school of Buddhism, and the monastery where the sixth patriarch studied is considered a local treasure.

When to visit

In terms of climate, the best time to visit Guangzhou is in October and November. Alternatively, April and May are also good months. Guangzhou has a sub-tropical climate with humidity levels at their highest in the summer, so unless you enjoy Turkish steam baths, this is a season to avoid! Typhoon season is from June to September. Please note that the Canton Trade Fairs take place annually in 3rd and 4th weeks of April and October, so finding accommodation at these times can be difficult (See the warning section under Sleep).

The airport is 28 km north from downtown Guangzhou, and should not be confused with the former Baiyun Airport which was closed in 2004. A metro line to the airport is under construction but won't be ready until 2010. In the meantime, taxi is the fastest option. See the airport fare table [39] for approximate fare cost. A taxi ride to downtown should cost no more than ¥120, inclusive of a ¥15 toll fee. As of 2009, there is a ¥1 fuel surcharge that is not shown on the fare meter.

Alternatively, 9 Airport Express bus lines are available to take you to major destinations in Guangzhou. Line 1 (¥16) departs every 15 minutes from 7 AM until the last flight and takes 45 minutes to reach the train station and Central Hotel. The ticket prices range from ¥10 to ¥36. Lines 1 to 6 are traveling within the metropolitan area, while lines 7-9 go to outer districts. There are also direct Airport Express buses to some cities in the vicinity, including Zhuhai and other cities in the Pearl River Delta.

Do not accept solicitations for rides to the city. Those are illegally operated and use unmarked vehicles. They may cost more than taxis since many travelers do not know the cost of airport transportations.

By train

Kowloon (Hong Kong)-Guangzhou through train timetable

Train no.

Hung Hom(departure)

GZ East(arrival)

T810*

07:28

09:11

T822*

08:25

10:13

T812*

09:18

11:00

T802*

10:32

12:13

T806*

11:17

12:58

T816*

12:30

14:12

T824*

13:19

15:07

T818*

14:43

16:26

T804

15:47

17:25

T808*

16:30

18:13

T826

17:55

19:37

T820*

19:24

21:07

Effective from 18 April 2008* denotes a stop-over in Dongguan (Changping station)

Trains cover the 182 kilometers from Hong Kong in about two hours (including a stop at Dongguan). Through Trains to Guangzhou depart from Hong Kong at Hung Hom railway station in Kowloon and arrive in Guangzhou at the East station in Tian He district. Trains operating on this service are operated by China Rail and the Hong Kong Mass Transit Railway Corporation (MTR). Since the merger of the Kowloon Canton Railway Corporation (KCRC) and the MTR, Hung Hom station and Hong Kong ticket sales are controlled by the MTR [40].

It is cheaper to take the high speed train (200 km/h) from Shenzhen to Guangzhou. Shenzhen is right across the border from Hong Kong and thousands of people walk over the bridge between the two every day. China High Speed train tickets are numbered D8## and can be bought from ticket counters or machines.

A project is underway to link the entire Pearl River Delta area with high speed (200+ km/hr) train network. The Zhuhai-Guangzhou section is due to open in 2008, and the journey will take just 56 minutes. Shenzhen is already connected. This is part of a nation-wide high-speed network that is under construction. Eventually, this will allow a 12-hour Guangzhou-Beijing ride.

It is possible to book a train ticket from Guangzhou to Lhasa, Tibet. The 4,980 km journey will take 58 hours. (¥869 and up.) The last stretch is on the new (2007) Qinghai-Tibet railway; for discussion see Overland to Tibet.

Bear in mind there are two major train stations in Guangzhou. The Guangzhou East Station (火车东站) services routes to Hong Kong, and other popular tourist destinations. The Guangzhou Station (广州火车站) is one of the biggest in the country and services routes that go all the way to Harbin. Countless travelers have gone to the wrong station and missed their scheduled trips. So be sure to know which train station to go to, which is specified on the tickets. Metro line 1 ends at Guangzhou East Station, and line 2 has a stop at the main station.

Note that there is little English signage at the train stations, and staff may not speak it (except at the Guangzhou-Kowloon counter)- bring a phrasebook or a Chinese friend if you're planning on traveling deeper into China.

By bus

Coach services are available to bring passengers from Hong Kong International Airport to several locations in Guangzhou. Among the destinations are recognizable landmarks like Jinan University (暨南大学) on Huang Pu Da Dao (黄埔大道), Garden Hotel (花园酒店) and China Hotel (中国大酒店) (see hotel section). The trip takes about 3+ hours and costs 250 HKD. There are also cross border bus terminals throughout Hong Kong. One of the Stations is at Austin Road and Canton Road near Kowloon Park. A one way ticket costs about 100 HKD.

Domestically, it is possible to hop on a bus from any corner of Guangdong province and get to Guangzhou. There are also many options from nearby provinces like Guangxi, Hubei and Fujian. The main stations are the Provincial Station (省汽车站), Tianhe Dasha Station (天河大厦站), Liuhua Station (流花站) and Yuexiu Nan Station (越秀南站).

By boat

There is a frequent ferry and hovercraft service from Hong Kong, Macau, and Haikou (Hainan Island) at the Zhoutouzui Ferry Pier (洲头咀码头). There are boats from other mainland cities, such as Xiamen, Shanghai, and Qingdao at the Dashatou Pier (大沙头码头).

New Nansha Pier (新南沙客运港) is now open with 6 lines daily traveling between Hong Kong and Guangzhou. The trip takes 75 minutes (¥116-230). However, Nansha is very far from the city center, although there is a bus route available from White Swan Hotel, running three times a day. Location Nansha Port: 1.6km South from Humen Bridge, Nansha District, Guangzhou. Passengers can take buses at White Swan Hotel to the Dock, 3 runs per day.

Get around

Yang Cheng Tong card

Guangzhou has a fairly efficient and rapidly expanding public transportation system.

If you intend to stay in Guangzhou for an extensive period of time, it is highly advisable to purchase a multi-purpose Yang Cheng Tong (羊城通) stored value card, similar to the Octopus Card in Hong Kong. It can be used not only for public transportation (bus, subway, parking meters and some taxis), but also for public phones and designated shops, places of interests and certain vending machines. The card includes a ¥30 refundable deposit. While you can purchase the cards in many places, returning your card at the end of the trip is a hassle, since service locations are limited. The best place to do so is at the service center at the metro Gong Yuan Qian station. It may be worth it to simply keep it as a souvenir.

By subway

Guangzhou Metro

Guangzhou's metro system[42] opened in 1999. The network covers much of the city center and is growing rapidly outward. The fare ranges from ¥2 to ¥12. Most of the signs and announcements are also in English. Tickets are bought from vending machines in the stations. Bills from ¥5 - ¥10 or coins from ¥0.5 - ¥1 are accepted at ticket vending machines. You can change smaller bills at the customer service counter. The ticket is a small plastic token, which you swipe over the blue reader at the gate to enter the platform, and at the exit where you insert the token into the slot like a vending machine. Multi-Pass and Yang-Cheng-Tong are also accepted and can be purchased at the customer service counter. Please note that most of these machines do not accept old or torn notes. You can exchange old or torn notes for coins at the customer service counter. Tell the officer at the counter where you want to go and he or she will return your note with the requisite fare in coins and the rest in notes.

By bus

There is also a comprehensive public bus service that covers Guangzhou from end to end. By far, it is the cheapest way to move around. Bus fares are ¥1 for the older buses and ¥2 for the air-conditioned ones, although the older buses are slowly being retired. Information at bus stops is mostly written in Chinese, although the current stop's name is also written in English and stops close to subway stations are marked with the Guangzhou Metro logo, which is handy if you are lost. On-board announcements are made in Mandarin, Cantonese and English. Exact fare or a Yangcheng card are needed when boarding. If travelling on a quiet bus it's advisable to signal to the driver that you wish to get off when approaching your stop by pressing the red buzzer next to the exit door or by saying 'xia yi zhan you xia'(pinyin:xià yī zhàn yǒu xià) meaning I'm

getting off at the next stop or'you xia'(pinyin:yǒu xià).

Buses are only handy for travelling within one district or for reaching suburban districts that are not served by the subway, and heavy traffic can lead to a slow, uncomfortable journey although they can be handy for a cheap but slow sightseeing tour. Trolleybus routes 101-109 are handy for exploring Liwan and Yuexiu districts. There is currently a bus rapid transit (BRT) line under development which will cut journey times between Tianhe Sport Centre and Huangpu District by up to 50% by using segregated lanes in the centre of the road and using flyovers and tunnels to cross major intersections.

There are also 3 tourist bus lines, passing through many scenic spots in the city.

A handful of commuter express buses run mostly in peak hours from major bus/subway interchanges to outlying districts using the elevated roads and can be faster than taking a conventional bus. Fares are charged according to distance.

By taxi

This is the most popular way for foreigners to get around, and it is very affordable. The starting charge is ¥7 for the first 2.3 kilometers, or about 1.4 miles. After that is ¥2.6 for each kilometer. The cost may be slightly different, depending on the taxi operators. ¥1 fuel surcharge is now added. Although widely publicized, many of them actually do not accept Yang Cheng Tong as payment. The taxi hot line is 96900. This comes in handy if you forget your valuables in a taxi. Save your receipt because it contains the taxi's identification number.

Tip: Business names and addresses on this guide are also in Chinese. Print them out and show them to the taxi drivers. Most drivers do not speak English; many are from the poorer northern provinces and do not even speak Cantonese.

By car

While driving in Guangzhou is an option, drivers unfamiliar with the driving conditions in China's large and densely populated cities should be aware that the experience can be extremely daunting and potentially dangerous.

By motorcycle

Although a convenient way to navigate the city's back alleys and lanes, motorcycles are totally banned from the downtown area of the city, and riding a motorcycle into these prohibited areas can lead to fines and possible confiscation of the bike.

In addition to the downtown motorcycle ban, electric bicycles are banned from the city roads. [43]

By bicycle

Due to the size of the city and poor facilities for cyclists, riding a bicycle is much less practical and much more dangerous than in other cities although millions of locals still cycle around. Generally it's safer to use the quiet backroads as main roads have little or no bicycle lanes and many intersections have no crossings for cyclists so you may find yourself having to frequently carry your bike across a footbridge or an underpass. There are very few rental shops and most are located on Shamian Island. However, you can buy a cheap bicycle from a major supermarket chain such as Trustmart, Carrefour or Tesco for about 200 yuan. A better option if you plan on staying a long time is to buy a lightweight folding bicycle as they can be carried on the metro free of charge.

Make sure you have a couple of high-grade locks as bike theft is rampant and the cheap locks available from bike-repair shops or those provided with the bike are of very low quality and can be easily broken. Many subway stations and busy areas have parking areas with a security guard who will watch your bike for around Y0.5-Y1 per day.

Note that cyclists cannot use the two main crossings of the Zhujiang River (the Huangsha - Fancun tunnel and the Haizhu Suspension Bridge) so you must uses the cross-river ferry instead (see below).

By ferry

The ferry is the cheapest way of crossing the Zhujiang River - it runs between the seafood market next to Shamian Island in Huangsha and the Bai-e-tan Bar Street (Changdi Lu) in Fancun and runs every 5 minutes from 5AM to midnight. The fare is 0.5yuan for a foot passenger or 1 yuan if you take a bicycle. The fare can be paid in cash (no change given) or using a transportation card - there are separate boarding gates for cyclists and pedestrians and you should pay at the boarding gate.

On foot

Due to the sheer size of the city, walking is not an option if for example you want to travel between Shamian Island and Citic Plaza as they are about 25km apart but can be reached in 30min by subway! However, walking is a great way of exploring individual districts and treats such as markets, small shops and local restaurants can be found up every little alleyway. Walking along main roads can be more of a nightmare - construction work can result in some inconvenient pedestrian diversions, open manhole covers or sidewalks blocked by huge piles of cement can be common. Take caution when crossing the road, even on a green light as bicycles and often cars will routinely drive through a busy pedestrian crossing expecting everyone to move out of the way. Many major intersections must be crossed using complex underpasses and footbridges. Make sure you have a map it's all too easy to get lost in the rabbit-warren of small streets and alleys, although street signs are written in English.

By getting on a bus without looking where it's going

(see above for information about using the buses)
Whilst this is not a guarantee of a good day out, if you have seen all the major sights and still have time leftover, many small attractions are scattered around every corner of the city. Go to a busy bus stop, jump on a random bus and see where it takes you. For 2 yuan you might get a cheap sightseeing tour of the 'undiscovered Guangzhou', although you might end up in a boring residential area or the bus might terminate 2 blocks from where you got on! Make sure you remember the route number of the bus so you can get back! (Bus Routes Online Service on: [44])

Talk

The primary language of Guangzhou is Cantonese, although standard Mandarin, or Putonghua, is also widely spoken due to the large influx of migrants. As the Guangzhou dialect of Cantonese is considered to be the prestige dialect, Guangzhou is a good place to start for those wanting to learn Cantonese in its "purest" form.

English is not common, but is still better understood here than most other Chinese cities, especially in restaurants and bars. It's a good idea to get your hotel's business card so taxi drivers can take you back if you get lost, and also to get hotel staff to write down the names of any tourist attractions you wish to visit in Chinese, so locals can point you in the right direction.

See

Landmarks

Sun Yat Sen Memorial

Our Lady of Lourdes Cathedral, on Shamian Island

Guangxiao Temple (光孝寺 guāng-xiào-sì) 109 Guangxiao Lu (光孝路) (Metro 1 Xi Men Kou - Exit C) – As the sixth patriarch of Zen Buddhism, Hui Neng, trained at this temple in the 7th Century, it is a popular pilgrimage site for Zen Buddhists. The temple has been destroyed several times by fire, and the current buildings date only from the mid 19th century. Admission ¥4.

Liurong Temple (六榕寺 liù-róng-sì) 87 Liurong Lu (六榕路) (Metro 1 Gong Yuan Qian - Exit I)– The Temple of Six Banyan Trees, which includes the 17 story, eight-sided Hua Ta, or Flowering Pagoda, is one of the most popular attractions in Guangzhou. The temple dates back to the 6th century, while the pagoda predates it by about 300 years. Admission ¥5, Flower Pagoda ¥10.

The buildings and streets of the former British and French concession on Shamian Island (沙面岛) have been beautifully renovated, creating an oasis of tranquility in an otherwise bustling and hectic metropolis. One of the old structures is Our Lady of Lourdes Chapel, located at 14 Shamian Street. Attractions on the island are all free. As an island, Shamian is not particularly spectacular, but what makes it special that for several hundred years this tiny spit of land was the only place in all of China that Europeans could establish settlements. The architecture reflects that era, and it has a very unique atmosphere. (Metro 1 Huang Sha - Exit D)

Across the canal from Shamian is the Chinese Medicine Market. The modern front of the market has quite a few stalls selling dried herbs used in Chinese Medicine. The real charm here lies just behind the modern exterior. The modern exterior is built onto a series of old historical narrow alleyways with shops selling herbs. The Starbucks on Shamian provides a great respite from the hustle and bustle of Guangzhou

Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall (中山纪念堂 zhōng-shān-jì-niàn-táng),(Metro 2 Ji Nian Tang - Exit C) located on Dongfeng Zhong Lu, is dedicated to the founder of the Republic of China and local hero Dr. Sun Yat-Sen. It was constructed in 1931 and built on the original site of Sun Yat-sen's presidential office on Yuexiu Hill. Oopen 8AM-6PM. Admission is free for the park and ¥10 to go inside the hall.

Chen Clan Academy (陈家祠 chén-jiā-cí) [45] Zhongshan 7 Lu (中山七路)(Metro 1 Chen Jia Ci - Exit D). This is very well preserved architecture from the 19th century. It used to belong to a wealthy family by the name of Chen and now houses many articles including ivory sculptures and artistic statues. (Admission ¥10)

Shishi Sacred Heart Catholic Cathedral (石室圣心大教堂 shí-shì-shèng-xīn-jiào-táng) 56 Yide Lu (一德路旧部前)(Metro 2 Hai Zhu Guang Chang).It is one of the oldest church structures in the city, and the largest of its kind of Southern China. It is currently in use for worship. Visiting hours are limited to Sun from 7AM-6PM. Free admission.

Huangpu Military Academy (黄埔军校旧址 huáng-pǔ-jūn-xiào-jiù-zhǐ) is on Changzhou Island. It was founded in 1924 by Sun Yat-sen, along with the Chinese Communist Party at the time. Many famous Chinese war heroes were trained here. Admission ¥15.

Huaisheng Mosque (怀圣寺 huái-shèng-sì) 56 Guangta Lu (光塔路) (Metro 1 Xi Men Kou Exit C). This is one of the oldest Muslim mosques in China, built in 627. The mosque is not open to the public, but you can take a peek outside.

Guangzhou Uprising Museum (广州起义旧址纪念馆) 200 Qiyi Lu (起义路200号)(Metro 1, 2 Gong Yuan Qian Exit J). The Museum is at the site of the first Communist government building. Open 9AM—12PM and 1:30PM-4:30PM Tues–Sun. Closed Mon.

Guangdong Revolutions History Museum (广东革命历史博物馆) 2 Lingyuan Xi Lu [b8907[p (陵园西路2号大院之2), (Located in the martyrs memorial park. Metro 1 Lie Shi Ling Yuan Exit D). Sun Yat-Sen was sworn in here in 1921 as the president of Republic of China. The museum tells stories from the Opium War to the founding of the new China.

Peasant Movement Institute (农民运动讲习所 nóng-jiǎng-suǒ) 42 Zhongshan 4 Lu (中山四路42号),(Metro 1, Nong Jiang Suo Exit C). This is the original site of Communist training center founded by Mao Tse-tung in the 1920s. Now it is a museum covering the recent China revolutionary history. Open 9AM-4:30PM Tue-Sat.

Parks

Yuntai Garden

Communist monument in Martyrs' Memorial Garden

Huanghua Gang Commemoration Park (黄花岗公园), huáng-huā-gǎng-gōng-yuán, [47] 79 Xianlie Zhonglu, ) (Tour Bus No. 1), +86 20 3758-8321. Open 6AM-8:30PM. Admission is free. This is a park that will set you in a poignant mood. The main attraction is the monument built to commemorate the 72 martyrs who died during the 1911 uprising.

Yuexiu Park (越秀公园) yuè-xiù-gōng-yuán, (Metro 2 Yue Xiu Park Station Exit B1)[48] is the largest urban park in China and is a lush green area that flows over acres of hills and includes several lakes. It includes the Ming Dynasty Zhenhai Tower (镇海楼) zhèn-hǎi-lóu, now home to the City Museum with relics dating back to the 15th century and an up-to-date miniature of Guangzhou (separate admission). Also check out the Stone Statue of the Five Rams (五羊石像), the symbol of Guangzhou (For more details, see 'History' section of Understand). Open 6AM-9PM. Free Admission.

Yuntai Garden (云台花园)(Tour Bus No. 1, 3) yún-tái-huā-yuán is situated at the foot of Baiyun (White Cloud) Mountain and is famous for its wide variety of rare flowers and trees. Every year there is a beautiful 3-D flower exhibit. During this period, admission is ¥20, but it is well worth it. Admission is ¥10.

Huadu Square (花都广场) huā-dū-guǎng-chǎng is a park-cum-recreation square located in the north part the city and near the government office buildings of Huadu District (花都区). The square incorporates, among other attractions, an outdoor theater, large fountain, outdoor dance area and statues. There is a large grass area that is similar to a Western style meadow and a subtropical forest and ornamental flower beds.

Guangzhou Martyrs' Memorial Garden (广州起义烈士陵园) guǎng-zhōu-qǐ-yì-liè-shì-líng-yuán) Zhongshan 2 Lu (中山二路),(Metro 1 Martyrs' Park Station Exit D) – This park is dedicated to those who fought and died in the Communist Uprising in 1927.

Mountains

The Baiyun Shan (White Cloud Mountain) (白云山 bái-yún-shān),(Tour Bus No. 1, 3) [49] is a great place to relax and enjoy a day among lush, rolling hills. It also offers great views over the city. The road to the top is restricted to park trams and pedestrians. To get to the top lookout point, you can use the main roads or trails. There are many places to rest and refreshments are available along the way. It is a great place to see people enjoying nature and playing games, such as badminton, football (soccer) and even bungie jumping. There are many bus routes to and from different parts of the city, as well as taxis usually available near the park gate. Open 6AM-7PM. Park entrance ¥5. Cable car round trip is ¥40, tram from ¥20. Other attractions ¥5-¥10)

Lianhua Shan (Lotus Mountain) (莲花山 lián-huā-shān) features an impressive quarry from which red sand stones were mined about 2,000 years ago, a pagoda from 1612, and a barrack from 1664. The obligatory statue of Guanyin, the Buddhist Goddess of compassion, at the side of the Buddhist temple is also not to be missed. From Guangzhou, take bus 308 or 302 and exchange bus at Panyu (番禺). The bus takes about two hours and costs ¥14. There is a ferry service from Guangzhou at Tianzi Pier (天字码头) at Beijing Lu Nan (北京路南) for ¥25. The boat leaves at 8:15AM and returns at 3:15PM. Admission is ¥30.

Learn

Sun Yat-Sen University[50] (中山大学 zhōng-shān-dà-xué), (Metro 2 Sun Yat-Sen University Station - Exit A)– This is the most famous university in Guangzhou and Southern China. It was founded by Sun Yat-sen, the founder of the Republic of China. The school now has three campuses. The old campus is green and beautiful, and has many historical sites. The north gate has a great river view.

Chinese medicine and acupuncture (中医和针灸) is taught at Guangzhou University of Traditional Medicine (广州中医药大学 guǎng-zhōu-zhōng-yī-dà-xué) [51] (Metro 2 San Yuan Li - Exit B). This is one of the main universities for traditional medicine in China and attracts many overseas students.

Buy

Locals on the run outside the Grandview Plaza in Tianhe District. In the background is the 80-story CITIC Plaza.

Street markets

If time and weather permits, walking is perhaps the best way to see the city as the back alleys, which are littered with antiquities, are not accessible by motorized vehicles. Most trades and goods categories are concentrated in a specific area or along one main street.

Guangzhou wholesale marker directory[52]. Find all kinds of professional wholesale markets in Guangzhou

Cultural Street (古玩字画街 / 文化商业街) Wende Lu (文德路),(Metro 1 Long Jiang Suo). This is a good place to look for antiques and traditional Chinese artistic goods.

Qingping Market (清平市场) Qingping Lu (清平路(,(Metro 1 Huang Sha) –It is located North from Shamian Island. Cantonese are known to eat just about any animal, and the market is world famous for its wild animal trades, although it has been tamer since the SARS outbreak. It is still a great place to go for exotic goods.

Haiyin Shopping District (海印专业购物区) is located at the northwest side of the Haiyin Bridge (海印大桥), selling appliances, sporting goods, cloth, fabrics, camera accessories, and eletronics.

Malls and shopping centers

Shangxiajiu pedestrian street

Beijing Lu Pedestrian Street (北京路步行街 běi-jīng-lù) – This is the main shopping thoroughfare, a pedestrian street where most stores are open from 9AM-10PM. Avoid individuals who solicit pirated DVDs and imitation goods. Don't follow anyone into the small dark alleys in between buildings to see their goods. Remember to visit Mayflower Plaza (五月花广场 wǔ-yuè-huā-guǎng-chǎng) at 68 Zhongshan 5 Lu (中山五路68号), at the northern end of the Pedestrian Street. This is a place where young people hang out and shop. (Metro 1, 2 Gong Yuan Qian - Exits C, D)

Shangxiajiu Pedestrian Street (上下九商业步行街 shàng-xià-jiǔ) This shopping area is also a showcase of traditional Cantonese architecture. It is particularly pretty at night when it's lit up. Prices here are generally lower than Beijing Lu's, but prepare to bargain a fair bit. Remember to visit Liwan Plaza (荔湾广场 lì-wān-guǎng-chǎng), located at 9 Dexing Lu (德星路9号), the east end of the street. (Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu - Exits D1, D2.) You will find a good selection of crystal here.

Zhengjia Plaza (Grandview Mall) (正佳广场 zhèng-jiā-guǎng-chǎng) [54] 228 Tianhe Lu, (天河路228号),(Metro 1, 3 Ti Yu Zhong Xin). +86 020 3833-0098. This is new mall built near Teem Mall, located in the heart of Tianhe district. It includes famous fashion stores and several department stores, with beautiful musical fountians and fantastic views. Guest flow can reach half a million a day on holidays and festivals. This mall includes Starbucks, Dairyqueen, Pizzahut and McDonalds. An iceskating rink, amusement park, and a fivestar cinema is available. This is the largest Western-style shopping mall in China.

China Plaza (中华广场 zhōng-huá-guǎng-chǎng). 33 Zhongshan 3 Lu, (中山三路33号),(Metro 1 Lie Shi Ling Yuan) – Located on top of a metro station, this is another large shopping mall with brand name department stores, clothing and electronics stores, restaurants, etc.

Tee Mall (天河城 tiān-hé-chéng) [55] (Chinese) 208 Tianhe Lu (天河路208号),(Metro 1 Ti Yu Xi Lu). This is probably the busiest and most popular shopping mall in the heart of the city. It is located right above the metro station.

Zhong Tian Shopping Plaza (中天购物城 zhōng-tiān-gòu-wù-chéng) – Located at Zhongxin Square near the East Train Station. (Metro 1 Guangzhou Dong Zhan.) (天河北路 233号中信广场). This plaza is more than a place to shop and eat. The plaza has great one-stop service to meet your banking, dry cleaning, grooming and transportation ticket needs.

Friendship Store (广州友谊商店 yǒu-yí-shāng-diàn) 369 Huanshi Dong Lu (环市东路369号). 9:45AM-9:45PM. It is one of the oldest department stores targeting foreigners in Guangzhou. You will also find its branches in Zhengjia Plaza and Times Square on 28 Tianhe Beilu (天河北路28号).

Wang Fu Jing (王府井百货 wáng-fǔ-jǐng) 40 Long Lin Xia Lu (农林下路40号). The famous department store in Beijing opened a branch in Guangzhou with the same name, featuring mid to high-end products.

Onelink Plaza (万菱广场 wàn-líng-guǎng-chǎng) 39 Jie Fang Nan Lu (解放南路39号) – At first glance, this looks like a regular shopping mall but it is actually a wholesale market. Each shop usually sells just one type of product but the selection and variety of products is enormous, you'll find variations of products you won't find anywhere else. You can buy products such as arts and crafts, jewelry, sporting goods, toys, key chains, collectibles and gifts of all types. Many store and boutique owners from all over the world come here to buy their products wholesale. You will get the best prices if you buy in bulk (usually 20 or more). Most shop owners will not bargain unless you buy in bulk. However, if you only buy one or two items, the prices are usually cheaper than anywhere else since you are buying directly from the wholesaler.

Do

Pearl River Dinner Cruise

Pearl River dinner cruise (珠江夜游) Dashatou Pier (大沙头码头), Tianzi Pier (天字码头), and Xiti Pier (西堤码头) – This is a one to two hour cruise in the evening and a great way to see the Guangzhou skyline along the Pearl River, including a light show at Bai-E-Tan. Tickets for the deluxe dinner cruise can be bought from most high-end hotels. Prices from ¥50 per person.

Festivals

Chinese New Year/Spring Festival (春节 chūn-jié) occurs on first day of first lunar month, usually in January or February. This is a 15 day celebration and some districts can be quite deserted as many migrant workers return to their home provinces. The flower fair is popular during the days before New Year.

Dragon Boat Festival (端午节 duān-wǔ-jié) on fifth day of fifth lunar month, usually in May or June. This festival commemorates the sacrifice of Qu Yuan (屈原), a famous poet who drowned himself in the river by way of making a statement against government corruption during the Warring States Period. The highlights are dragon boat racing along the Pearl River, and eating rice dumplings wrapped in bamboo leaves (粽子).

Mid-autumn Festival (中秋节 zhōng-qiū-jié) is on the 15th day of 8th lunar month, usually in Sept or Oct. Cantonese moon cakes are enjoyed during this holiday. Lian Xiang Lou and Tao Tao Ju's moon cakes are especially famous (see "Eat" section). Kids' favorites are paper lanterns. Many locals also enjoy riding ferries and watching the full moon on the Pearl River.

Tomb Sweeping Day (清明节 qīng-míng-jié) is around the spring equinox, usually on April 5th. Involves visits to the family tombs for cleaning and making offerings.

Chinese Valentines Day (七夕 qī-xī) is on 7th day of 7th lunar month, usually in August or September. According to legend, a heavenly fairy Zhi Nu (织女) fell in love with a mortal farm boy Niu Lang (牛郎). It's forbidden of course, so as punishment, they are only allowed to meet once a year on this day. This is the Chinese equivalent of Valentine's Day, but it is steadily losing its appeal among the locals, especially to the young.

Winter Solstice (冬至) dōng-zhì, which literally means the Coming of Winter is on December 22nd. Traditionally, Cantonese people observe the day with a family feast, which often includes preserved duck and sausages. However, the highlight of the day's festive dishes is hot soup served with flour dumplings (汤圆).

The Canton Fair

Twice a year, in Spring and Fall, Guangzhou hosts the Canton Fair[56] or China Import And Export Commodities Fair. It has been running since 1957 and for many years was almost the only way foreign businesses could make contacts in China. It is still very important now. Anyone who is doing or wants to do business with China should consider visiting.

If you are going to the fair, book a hotel well in advance. Hotels tend to be booked and expensive during the Fair. China Hotel and Dongfang Hotel are probably the best places to stay if you can afford it. It is right across the street from one of the main exhibit halls. Many affordable hotels, including Oasis Hotel Guangzhou [57], provide free shuttle services to the main exhibit centers during the fair. Taxis may not be your best option since there are traffic controls in the exhibit areas.

The two main exhibit halls are the Pazhou Complex at 380 Yuejiang Zhong Lu (阅江中路380号) (Metro 2 Pa Zhou), and the old Liuhua Complex at 117 Liuhua Lu (流花路117号) (Metro 2 Yue Xiu Gong Yuan). The old Liuhua Complex is closed now, the whole fair takes place at Pazhou Complex (for details visit the official website of Canton Fair).

Eat

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Cantonese cuisine is well-known for its blend of color, fragrance, taste and presentation, and it is ranked among the top four in the country. In particular, dim sum, a delicate pastry, is famous for being simple yet delicious. Local customs have also played a major role in the development and diversity of Cantonese cuisine, as it is often said that Cantonese people eat everything that swims except a submarine, everything that flies except an airplane, and everything with four legs except a table. However, despite the culinary achievements in the kitchen, the standards of hygiene still leave a lot to be desired, and so care should be taken in choosing restaurants and dishes. If in doubt, it is safer to avoid food containing meat, and fortunately Cantonese cuisine is famous for its vegetarian dishes.

Do not ever be afraid of ordering too much - almost every restaurant in Guangzhou will have a takeaway option, just ask to da bao (take-out) and your leftovers will be packaged up in a sealable, microwavable container to be eaten at home.

Traditional

Chuan Guo Yan Yi, 140-148 Tiyu Dong Lu, Tien He District, ☎+86 20 3887-9879. Food from Sichuan (Sezchuan) province, the food from this restaurant is served hot pot style. Busy on Friday and Saturday nights. Popular with expats and those who like hot/spicy food.

Datong Restaurant (大同酒家), 63 Yanjiang Lu (沿江路63号), ☎+86 20 8188-8988. Huge restaurant spans all 8 floors of the old building. The place has been around for a long time and is a favorite among locals.

Wenji Restaurant (文记壹心鸡), 10 Xuanyuan Qiao (荔湾区宝华路旋源桥10号) (Metro 1 Chang Shou Lu), ☎+86 20 8172-8887. As the place was established by the former chefs from Qingping restaurant, they have the original Qingping chicken on the menu.

Southeast Asian

Cow and Bridge Thai Restaurant (牛桥泰菜), 2/F, Xiang Long Garden, 181 Tianhe Bei Lu (天河北路181号祥龙花园二楼), ☎+86 20 8525-0821. This famous Thai restaurant offers many varities of Thai dishes. Ask for the more fiery version of your meal, if you're used to Thai cuisine, as the dishes are somewhat localized.

Lan Kwai Fong (兰桂坊), 5 Shamian Nan Jie (沙面南街5号), ☎+86 20 8121-6523. Good curries and polite service in this Shamian Island favorite. It is tourist friendly and menus are available in English.

Indian

Vaastu, a date with India (雅仕度餐厅), "D2,, ☎+86-20-38258181, [2]. Vaastu started operations in October 2008. The food is great and the location is near the new central business district in Zhujing Xinchng (Pearl River New City). Very nice decor. Consists of three sections. A must visit on your trip to Guangzhou. Voted the Best Restaurant in Guangzhou in 2008 and 2009. Owner is often there.

Foreign Chains

Foreign fast food, ice cream and coffee chains are well established in Guangzhou. These include KFC (肯德基), Pizza Hut (必胜客), McDonald's (麦当劳), Starbucks (星巴克) and Häagen-Dazs (哈根达斯). All of these can be found in the Zhengjia Plaza (See "Shop").

Convenience stores and supermarkets

Convenience stores are on almost every street corner and most are open 24 hours. Major convenience store chains include 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, Circle-K and C-Store. Prices are a little higher than in local shops or supermarkets, particularly at 7-Eleven. Note that 7-Eleven, FamilyMart and Circle-K do not sell cigarettes, but C-store does. Corner Deli is an imported products (Europe, U.S.A. and AUS/NZ) grocery store on the backstreet behind CITIC Plaza.

The main supermarket chains are:

Carrefour - huge French hypermarket on Kanwang Lu near Chenjiaci station. It's cheap and has a good product choice.

Jusco - several including Martyrs Park, Tee Mall (TiyuXilu) and GZ East train station. This Japanese chain has a good selection of imported foods.

Park 'n' Shop - Hong Kong chain with several locations ranging from convenience stores to hypermarkets. The largest stores are in the shopping mall above Changshou Lu Station and on Tianhe Bei Lu close to the Longkouxi bus stop. A little more expensive but has a good choice of imported foods.

TESCO - British hypermarket located on Zhongshan 6th Rd. above Ximenkou Station. Spread over 4 floors - has a limited choice of food and very few imported products, but very cheap.

Trust-mart - locations at Fangcun, Kecun Living Mall and Gangding. This Chinese chain has a large stock of non-food items but the grocery selection is a little limited although prices are lower than it's international rivals. Often crowded at weekends.

Drink

Bar Street at Bai-E-Tan

When it comes to drinks, Guangzhou is one of the best cities in China to knock back a few. With a relatively large population of foreigners here, the city offers a wide variety of nightspots that cater to all tastes.

Tsing Tao and Zhu Jiang are the two major Chinese beer brands that are sold almost everywhere. Both are fairly standard light lagers. Carlsberg is also brewed in Guangzhou, which explains the reasonably large amount of Carlsberg taps in the bars.

Bai-E-Tan Bar Street (白鹅潭酒吧风情街) on Changdi Street (长堤街) (Metro 1 Fang Cun; across the river from White Swan Hotel) is packed with bars, but action is scarce until at least 10:30PM. It is recommended to have dinner in one of the nearby restaurants before heading out to the bars. Special promotions, such as a half dozen bottles of beer for ¥100, are common.Overseas Chinese Village, next to Holiday Inn is a sort of bar street consisting of six or seven bars side by side, all two-storey buildings with a different theme on each floor. Prices are on the high side, costing about ¥40 for a small bottle of beer.

For latest reviews of restaurants, bars and night clubs pick up a free copy of That's PRD[58], a monthly English publication. It is available at several hotels and lounges.

Pubs

Nightlife at Shangxiajiu in Liwan District.

Elephant and Castle, (next door to Hill Bar opposite the Garden Hotel). British style pub serving bitter Guinness and a variety of bottled and draft beers. Prices are reasonable for the area, especially during Happy Hour. Serves decent pub food.

Hooley's Irish Pub and Restaurant, 2 Tian He Bei Lu, Ground Floor of the Bing Hua Hotel, Tianhe District (Walking distance from Westin Hotel). Closest pub to Grand Hyatt, Ritz Carlton, Zhu Jiang New Town. An authentic Irish pub with a focus on live music performances (rock, pop, folk and jazz). Known to have best pub grub in the city, as well as Irish, Italian and fusion dishes. Bakes its own bread. Great rocking vibe Fri-Sa. Open Mic Wednesdays, Ladies Night Thursdays.

Lucy's (Cafe Bar), (next to the White Swan Hotel right by the Pearl River). Excellent western food and drinks for very reasonable prices. Very nice area in the open for al-fresco dining.

Paddy Field Irish Pub and Restaurant, (around the back of Garden Hotel).

Sleeping Wood Cafe. (happy hour before 8PM). Cozy restaurant pub next to the Holiday Inn with friendly, English speaking staff. Serves western food and all kinds of alcoholic drinks. One-for-one pint-sized Tsing Tao draft beer during happy hour. Good place to unwind, especially in the open area. 2nd location along Pearl River.¥25-¥30.

Dance clubs

C:Union, No.115, Shuiyin Rd., Chengshihui. Great place to hear atyipical live music like reggae or classic rock. Bar has both an indoor section consisting of a dance floor and couches and an outdoor section with patio seating and recently-added new basement. Wide beer selection and bartenders measure all drinks out in plain view. Early on the bar is populated mostly by locals, however as the night progresses the bar quickly fills with expats. Patrons tend to be very friendly open to meeting new people. There is usually at least one English speaking bartender at each station.¥25-¥50 beer, ¥15 shots.

Club NaNa, No. 26 Tianlun Garden Jian She 4 Rd. (建设4马路26号天伦花园) (up the street from Oggi's Pizza). Packs a variety of music, well-known throughout Guangzhou for its wild parties, including a singles lock and key party, a secret costume party, and live hip-hop shows. The owners may be seen handing out free drinks. Beware of the tequila shots. Begins as a largely Chinese club but around 11:30PM, the shaking switches from dice to dancing and it becomes a mix of East and West.

Gipsy King Bar (大篷车酒吧), 360 Huanshi Dong Lu (环市东路360号珠江大厦西地下) (opposite end of the Zhu Jiang Building from The Cave), ☎+86 020 8387-5177. Underground bar similar to The Cave. Many local "working" girls sashay around. There are individual dance performances at one corner of the bar, while group performances start on the main dance floor at 10PM.¥30 standard drink.

Gipsy King Bar

Penthouse. High class bar with dance floor. Variety of sparkling wine ensures you can live it up with standards. The DJs blast the hottest music.

Tang Club, 1 Jianshe 6 Malu (建设六马路1号). One of the most expensive places to hang out, featuring a live band that plays good old rock-and-roll as well as contemporary rock. This is the place to be seen. The crowd is a mixture of expats and locals.¥50 small bottles.

Tea houses

The culture of tea drinking, also known as Yum Cha (饮茶), runs deep in Guangzhou. After all, the city was at the center of the massive tea trade that existed between China and Europe during the 19th century.

Starbucks has been in the P.R.C. for over 10 years, with more than 25 locations in Guangzhou alone. The benefit to many travelers is the free wireless internet. More popular locations are on Taojin Lu by the Guangzhou Friendship Store, and just across Huanshi Dong lu in the Peace World Plaza is a 2-storey location. It is across the street from the Garden Hotel.
TIP: Pick up a brochure from the milk/sugar/spices bar that lists locations throughout Guangdong province (Guangzhou, Dongguan, Shenzhen). Addresses are written in English and Chinese and very handy for showing a taxi driver.

Sleep

WARNING:The last two weeks of April and October (April 15-30 and October 15-30) coincide with the annual Guangzhou International Trade Fairs. Hotel room rates are unreasonably hiked up anything from 200% to 400%, including hostels! If you're not travelling to see the Trade Fair, you might want to consider another period of time.

This guide uses the following price ranges for a standard double room:

Budget

Under ¥150

Mid-range

¥150-500

Splurge

Over ¥500

Budget

City Youth Hostel (广州国际青年旅舍), 179 Huanshi Xi Lu (环市西路179号) (Metro 2 Guangzhou HuoCheZhan), ☎+86 020 8666-6889. Tiny single rooms and close to the train station but it does not provide the nicest environment.singles ¥80, ¥60 for members (¥270 in Oct).

Guangdong Youth Hostel (广东省外事办招待所), 2 Shamian 4 Jie (沙面四街2号) (diagonally across the street from the landmark White Swan Hotel, Metro 1 Huang Sha), ☎+86 20 8121-8298, [6]. Clean, convenient and reasonably priced for Guangzhou. English is spoken. There are 8 dormitory beds in each room. Ask for a double room on the 5th floor on the river side. Good quality/price. There is a lounge with free computers and internet, TV, microwave oven, and refrigerator. Reservations are accepted and encouraged, since the hostel is usually at capacity and was featured on the Globe Trekker.dorms ¥60, singles ¥200.

Mid-range

Bing Hua Hotel (冰花酒店), 2 Tian He Bei Lu(2号冰花酒店首层(广州大道转角处), ☎+86 20 8750 2888 - 3315/3300. Located at the gateway to Tian He and features one of the city's finest pubs in its lobby, Hooley's, featuring a foreign chef.

Dragon Pearl Hotel, 91 Longkuo West Road, Tianhe District, ☎0086-020-87241616, [11]. Rooms are cozily fitted with a sofa, dining area, writing desk and chair, and private toilet and bath with shower. Essential features like Internet access, an IDD phone, and refrigerator are also provided. Welcome drinks and a fresh fruit plate are served upon arrival.Best rates on official website start at ¥218″.

Guangdong Bostan Hotel, No. 76 Tianhe North Rd., Tianhe District, ☎+1 86-20-38782888, [13]. Superb corporate assistance without sacrificing recreational pleasures. The hotel has multifunction halls and meeting rooms great for business or personal affairs, as well as KTV rooms, a beauty salon, and restaurants that serve Sichuan and Xinjiang cuisines.″.

Guangdong Victory Hotel (广东胜利宾馆), 53 Shamian Bei Jie (沙面北街53号) (Metro 1 Huang Sha), ☎+86 20 8121-6688, [14]. On Shamian Island, offers good value rooms and nice service. English is spoken. The concierge assistance available. There is also a recently renovated annex building nearby, which offers more upscale rooms than the main building.¥320.

Hotel Canton (广州大厦), 374 Beijing Lu (广州市北京路374号), ☎+86 20 8318-9888, [17]. This was once a glorious hotel, but it's now a bit outdated. However, it is in the northern end of Beijing Lu pedestrian shopping street. Metro station for both lines 1 and 2 nearby.¥390.

Kaying Hotel, 418 Huanshi E Rd., Tianhe District, ☎+86-21-61226688 Ext. 7800, [19]. Perfect for business executives, as it is in the heart of the financial and business district. The hotel offers 339 rooms, 2 conference rooms, a hotpot restaurant, and a Western restaurant. Online reservations.

Zhong Qiao Hotel Guangzhou, No. 103 Chigang Road, Haizhu District, Guangzhou, Guangdong, China, ☎+86(20)62764628, [21]. Zhong Qiao Hotel Guangzhou is in Haizhu business area, the hotel that offers guests best hotel location and guest-friendly accommodation rates. Zhong Qiao Hotel Guangzhou is also located near the Pazhou Trade Center, where the Canton Fair, one of the largest and most comprehensive international trade fairs in the world, is held. And while you’re staying in Zhong Qiao Hotel Guangzhou discover the other great things that the Guangzhou city has to offer like the Pearl River Promenade, Guangzhou East Railway Station and lots more. Best rates on official website start at CNY 150″.

Splurge

Asia International Hotel (亚洲国际大酒店), 326 Huangshi Dong Lu, Sec 1 (环市东路326号), ☎+86 20 6128-8888, [22]. One of a handful of hotels that feature separate bath and shower areas in a standard room. Internet access is free but slow. It also features Guangzhou's highest revolving restaurant on the top level.

Garden Hotel (花园酒店), 368 Huanshi Dong Lu (环市东路368号), ☎+86 20 8333-8989, [27]. Arguably the most recognizable hotel in the heart of the city, has both standard hotel rooms as well as apartments and offices for rent. Deluxe rooms are clean but basic, elite rooms are newly renovated and attractive. Excellent dinner buffet at the revolving restaurant on the top level. Shops, HSBC and Bank of China branches, and a bus station serving express buses to the Guangzhou airport, the Hong Kong airport and nearby cities such as Zhuhai.

The Westin Guangzhou, 6 Lin He Zhong Rd., Tian He District, ☎+86 20 2886 6868, [35]. Next to the Consular section of the U.S. Consulate. It's also a short walk to the East Rail station for trains to Hong Kong. 448 rooms and suites.

White Swan Hotel (白天鹅宾馆), 1 Shamian Nan Jie (沙面南街1号) (Metro 1 Huang Sha), ☎+86 20 8188-6968, [36]. On the banks of the Pearl River on the quiet Shamian Island, complimented by a charming park nearby where locals can be found doing taichi. Surrounding the hotel are blocks of little shops run by locals willing to bargain. Offers a traditional Chinese restaurant and an American style restaurant to accommodate its visitors.¥800.

Stay safe

While not a dangerous city, Guangzhou's crime rate is higher than the rest of China. Due to the enormous number of people from other mainland provinces flocking to Guangzhou in the hope of finding jobs (often unsuccessfully), the area surrounding the main train station has gained a notorious reputation for being chaotic, unsafe and rampant with petty crimes. Pickpockets are especially active here. In recent years, armed (large blades, knives, and such) robberies in the open and abductions which result in first degree murders have been on the rise in the city, even though such crimes are punishable by death. Just bear in mind, when people become desperate, they will do anything to get what they want. If you are getting robbed, do not expect the crowd to help. And if they are armed, do not fight back. The best defense, as always, is common sense. Do not flash your valuables in public, do not wander around by yourself late at night and remain alert at all times. Use only official taxis and get advice from the government-run tourist office.

There has been increasing incidences of HIV positive men and women using infected syringes to threaten people for cash. Other tactics include walking across heavy traffic whilst carrying bags of goods and deliberately knocking them into nearby cars hoping to fool drivers and asking money for compensation.

Use caution at bars or night clubs. Foreigners have been targets for physical assaults in these venues. Attacks on foreigners have been provoked when someone is perceived to have made derogatory statements about China.

With its vast, ever-increasing population, there will always be people (mostly from out of town) who just seem to be hanging around. Those unaccustomed to this may feel intimidated, especially Westerners who get stared at a lot. However, please remember that rural Chinese are not used to seeing a "Gwai Lo" (a Westerner), so their stares are merely out of interest, and should not be taken as something rude or offensive. In this respect, it is important to be aware that three out of 10 people in Guangzhou are migrants from other provinces.

Traffic accident rates in Guangzhou (or China for that matter) are significantly higher than those of other countries. Use extra caution when crossing streets; use pedestrian bridges and tunnels whenever possible. Like everywhere else in China, cars do not yield to pedestrians. Instead, drivers automatically expect pedestrians to yield to them. So in most cases, they don't stop until it's too late.

Motorcycles (other than 3 wheeled vehicles for the handicapped) have been completely banned from Guangzhou's streets due to a previous rash of motorcycle based snatch and grab robberies and other safety issues.

Cope

Banking

ATMs that accept foreign credit or debit cards are common in shopping malls and tourist areas. Withdrawal is available in Chinese currency only. Most banks also accept exchanges from your local currencies to RMB. Your passport is required for this service. However, they do not change it back to your local currencies.

Bank of China (中国银行) [62] There is a branch inside Garden Hotel. ATM is available on the ground floor of White Swan Hotel, and over 100 locations in Guangzhou. Their ATMs are the best bet for using foreign cards.

Citi[64] Unit 101, Fortune Plaza No. 118 TiYu East Road Tian He district. +86-20-38981688. This bank has a full service branch, foreign currency exchange services, and a 24 hour International ATM Service.

Laundry

Few lower end hotels and hostels have coin-operated self-service laundry room. Self-service laundromats are not available on the streets, although dry clean and laundry stores are available to clean your clothes. Normally you can drop your clothes off and pick them up the next day. One laundry chain is TianTian (天天洗衣), which is conveniently located in all Metro stations. There are many stores on Shamian Island that have laundry service. An average load of laundry costs about ¥100.
In other parts of the city, there are laundry/dry clean shops sprinkled throughout neighborhoods. An average load should cost no more than ¥40 (couple pair of bottoms, one or two skirts/shorts, 6 or so tops). If you are doing sheets and blankets, they should charge no more then ¥10 for a blanket, ¥30 for a comforter. Dry-cleaning a sweater is about ¥8.

Television

Guangzhou Television (GZTV) [65] has an English channel, offering entertainment and cultural programs. There are two English channels from Hong Kong, "Pearl" and "ATV World", available in most hotels, offer a great selection of prime time shows from US and UK.

Newspapers and Magazines

The China Daily and/or Global Times are the two only English language newspapers available in Guangzhou, and both can be found on newstands throughout the city. There are several bookstores throughout the city that sell current English and Foreign periodicals. The South China Morning Post from Hong Kong is also avaliable by subscription only.

Places of worship

All the religious sites listed in the See section are open to worshippers.

Christian: Guangzhou International Christian Fellowship [66] holds weekly service on Sundays at 10AM for expats from around the world in English. You must show your travel documents to enter since residents are not allowed there due to local laws. The meeting location is Star Hotel (景星酒店) near the East Train Station. Phone: 1366 234 6904. Hotel Address: 89 Linhe Xi Lu (林和西路89号). (Metro 1 Dong Zhan)

Gym

Guangzhou has several branches of Total Fitness. One of the locations is at the 8th floor of Zhengjie Plaza (正佳广场).
The Guangzhou Marriott (China Hotel, A Marriott Hotel) has a complete new gym (Dec. 2008) with brand new Star Trac equipment, a swimming pool, tennis court, sauna and steam. The hotel is easy accessible from the subway

Guide

Get out

Yuanxuan Taoist Temple includes three Taoist temples in one complex: Sanqing Temple, Taihe Temple and Yuanchen Temple. Sanqing Temple is the most architecturally important of the three structures, while Yuanxuan Taoist Temple has carvings of divine beings. The central hall is covered by yellow glazed tiles and decorated with the bright images of Yuqing, Shangqing and Taiqing, the three authoritative deities in Taoism. The temple is located near Bi Village in southwest Xinhua Town. You can take the No. 9 bus from Hua Du Downtown. (Admission ¥2)

The dwellings of overseas Chinese from the early 20th century in Kaiping (开平).

Foshan (佛山) is only an hour away from Guangzhou. Famous for its Ancestry Temple (祖庙), it is also the home to legendary Wong Fei Hong, a martial art master.

Hong Kong (香港) is 2-3 hours away, depending on the modes of transportation.

Humen (虎门) in Dongguan (东莞) is famous for its Opium War era relics (虎门销烟). It is a bridge away from the Nansha District.

Shenzhen (深圳) is a new city on the borders of Hong Kong, one of the first special economic zones set up in China. Check out theme parks such as Windows of the World, The China Folk Culture Villages and Splendid China. Frequent buses and trains are available (Tickets around ¥60 - ¥80). The trip will take 1 to 2 hours. Make sure you have your passport while traveling to Shenzhen; they check it when you enter Shenzhen, although you are still in Guangdong, China.

Zhuhai (珠海) is another special economic zone to the south, at the border with Macau. You can get a bus ride from any of the major bus stations in the city. A train line is under construction but,as of mid-2009, not complete.